VOXX (Audiovox) announced it has formed a partnership with Sling Media (owned by EchoStar).
Its VOXXHirshmann subsidiary will integrate a custom vehicle-specific version of the Slingplayer app into its OEM rear seat entertainment. This will allow Slingbox owners to watch live or recorded programming from their home subscription directly in the car.
Under the terms of the agreement, VOXXHirschmann will become the exclusive automotive supplier of the Slingbox/Slingplayer solution for “a vehicle entertainment sub system” worldwide.
The partnership lets users receive their home TV experience in the car, including live TV, on-demand services and DVR content from a consumer’s set top box..
Regarding possible aftermarket products, a VOXX spokeswoman said, “At this point, this technology is being designed exclusively into our OEM products. Other opportunities have not yet been defined.”
Slingbox technology will be part of a new Evolutions Series (EVO) for backseat entertainment from VOXX. It will be available for headrest systems, seat back mounted displays or overhead flip down monitors. Additionally, consumers can access content on any portable device they bring into the car and then stream it to the car monitors via wired or wireless options. The EVO product with Slingbox should be available to OEMs in 12-18 months.
The companies also plan to integrate Slingbox into car tuners or antennae at the OEM factory level as a Tier1 or Tier2 OEM production offering.
VOXX first mentioned the use of Singbox technology in October.
Pat Lavelle, VOXX International’s President and CEO said, “We are very excited with this partnership as it represents another first-to-market for our company and holds significant potential for our Automotive OEM group.”
VOXX will show Slingbox technology at CES in Las Vegas, January 6-9, 2015 – Central Hall – Booth #10417.
Source: VOXX Electronics
